To all our bellringers and volunteers, to the companies that allowed us to stand at your facilities, to the media who told the community of our efforts, to the kind donors, we truly appreciate all you have done and continue to do to help those less fortunate.

This year will be a challenging year for The Salvation Army in Fulton because we fell short of our Red Kettle goal of $60,000 by almost $7,000. For us, that is a tremendous amount of money because we work on a shoestring budget. Somehow, though, we know that God will provide. He always does — especially when it comes to helping our little brothers and sisters who are struggling.

While our goal was not reached, we were blessed with many gifts of food and toys for the holiday effort. Some 150 families received assistance during the holiday season. A total of 120 children received three toys each and 113 nursing home residents each received a small blanket.

All this was made possible because you helped.

I would like to make one final plea. If anyone wishes to help The Salvation Army close the gap to our goal, you may send your tax-deductible gift to: The Salvation Army of Fulton, 62 South First St., Fulton, NY 13069-0096.

Thank you so much for all you and may God keep you healthy and safe during this New Year.

Capt. Kevin Brennan, co-director
The Salvation Army of Fulton